Chris Sullivan’s journey in Hollywood has been a remarkable one, with notable roles in shows like “This Is Us” and “Stranger Things.” However, his career was significantly shaped by acclaimed director Steven Soderbergh. In 2013, Sullivan landed a major role in Soderbergh’s period medical drama, “The Knick,” playing the character of Tom Cleary. Fast forward to 2023, amidst the SAG-AFTRA strike and Sullivan’s Broadway run, Soderbergh offered him a pivotal role in the supernatural thriller film “Presence.”
Penned by renowned screenwriter David Koepp, “Presence” follows the Payne family as they navigate their new home after a tragic incident involving their daughter’s best friend. Sullivan plays Chris, the family patriarch, who strives to keep his family together with some help from a mysterious phantom presence. The film is shot entirely from the ghost’s perspective, giving viewers an intimate voyeuristic experience into the family’s struggles.
Working with Soderbergh on this unique project posed some challenges for Sullivan, especially adapting to the unconventional camera setup. With no traditional coverage or editing, the filming process required a new level of technical understanding from the actors. However, Sullivan embraced the experience, appreciating the opportunity to work on a film that trusts its audience to interpret the story.
Sullivan’s character in “Presence” mirrors his own name, prompting speculation about whether the role was specifically written with him in mind. While he didn’t delve into the details of this coincidence, he found it intriguing to portray a character with his own name for the first time. The dynamics within the troubled family in the film provided Sullivan with a fresh perspective on parental roles, challenging stereotypes and offering a new emotional depth to his performance.
As “Presence” delves into themes of fear, family dynamics, and the supernatural, Sullivan’s own experiences with unexplainable occurrences added a layer of authenticity to his performance. From spooky encounters during filming to his lifelong fascination with the horror genre, Sullivan brought a personal connection to the role.
In addition to his work on the big screen, Sullivan is also known for his humorous portrayal of “Mike Bearmantraut” on the “Better Call Saul Insider Podcast.” Created by his friend and podcast host Chris McCaleb, the quirky character became a fan favorite, showcasing Sullivan’s versatility as an actor.
With “Presence” now playing in theaters, Chris Sullivan continues to captivate audiences with his diverse range of performances, solidifying his status as a rising star in Hollywood.